Temora and Snowy Valleys had gone without a single COVID case throughout the delta outbreak until this weekend, with the Murrumbidgee Local Health District reporting one case in both LGAs.

Both district leaders agreed that it was surprising that the virus hadn't reached their areas earlier, thanking their communities for proactive responses to the pandemic.

Snowy Valleys mayor James Hayes said there was a "certain amount of serendipity" that his district has only recorded a case now that state is beginning to open.

"As lift restrictions, there will be more cases," he said.

"I'd encourage all those people who want to get vaccinated and for everyone to continue following the social distancing and health measures that are in place."

Without providing details regarding the Snowy Valleys COVID case, Mr Hayes said the community must prepare for potentially more infections as the borders reopen.

IN OTHER NEWS:

However, he has addressed some concerns for elderly residents and those that are immunosuppressant if case numbers were to rise.

"I'm concerned for anybody that catches it and certainly people who are more susceptible," he said.

"The health facilities are pretty good in Tumut, Tumbarumba and Batlow, and certainly the new Tumut hospital, but my concern would be more for residents of aged care institutions."

Temora Mayor Rick Firman was similarly surprised that Saturday was the first time a case had been reported in his district.

"The individual is a resident of Ariah Park and was attending a funeral in Albury. They're now self-isolating in a hotel in Albury."

He has also thanked MLHD's chief executive Jill Ludford for her communication regarding the situation.

"Mrs Ludford rang me again today just for an update and her communication and support has been exceptional."

He continued to say that his community is prepared as regional NSW welcomes travellers from out-of-state and beyond, stating it's best to be "alert but not alarmed".

"Our vaccination rates are very, very positive and people are doing their best to protect themselves, their family, their community, and their region.

"We just need to ensure that we continue to do the right thing as per our public health orders and just keep others in our hearts and minds with everything we do ... we've got to go that extra mile sometimes for those that we care about."

Yesterday, the MLHD reported 97 per cent of those over the age of 16 have now received their first jab, as the region recorded 17 new COVID cases.

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content: